In Atlantic County, as in other parts of New Jersey, legislation both at the state and federal levels is in place to combat gender-based pay discrimination. Despite these legal safeguards, the issue of wage disparity persists, particularly affecting women. Studies indicate that women, on average, earn less than men for comparable work, with figures showing varying degrees of the wage gap.
For instance, research from the Pew Research Center in 2015 revealed that women earned approximately 83% of what men made for similar work hours. While this represents an improvement from previous decades, there remains a substantial gap in earnings. The United States Census Bureau reports an even wider disparity, with women earning around 80% of men’s wages when considering full-time, year-round employment.
Even among younger women aged 25 to 34, who tend to experience a slightly narrower pay gap, there is still a significant difference, with women earning only about 90% of what their male counterparts make. This suggests that wage inequality persists across various age groups. Furthermore, even in fields where women are predominant, such as childcare, they still earn approximately 95% of what men earn for similar roles.
Women and Promotion
The issue of pay equality intersects with challenges in career advancement for women. Studies indicate that women often face longer paths to promotion, impacting their overall pay progression. For instance, in the education sector, female school principals typically require three more years of teaching experience compared to their male counterparts before being promoted. This discrepancy can be attributed in part to factors such as career breaks or reduced work hours for family care responsibilities, which are more commonly shouldered by women.
The Equal Pay Act
Legislation such as the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the more recent Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act in New Jersey play crucial roles in addressing pay discrimination. These laws emphasize the importance of equal pay for substantially similar work, regardless of job titles. They provide avenues for employees to seek redress for wage disparities directly through the legal system, without having to go through administrative channels initially.
New Jersey and the New Equal Pay Act
Moreover, the Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act imposes stringent measures against pay discrimination, making it illegal for employers to pay members of protected classes less than their counterparts for similar work. The Act also allows for compensation claims spanning up to six years for affected workers and imposes treble damages on employers found guilty of violating pay practices.
Overall, the legal framework in Atlantic County, bolstered by legislation like the Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act, reflects a commitment to combating pay discrimination and advancing workplace equality. This legislation positions New Jersey as a leader in ensuring comprehensive protection against pay disparity, underlining the state’s dedication to fostering fair and just workplaces for all individuals
Contact Our Experienced New Jersey Equal Pay Attorneys
At Castronovo & McKinney, our commitment to advocating for equal pay is reflected in our track record of effectively handling such claims throughout Atlantic County and New Jersey. Our legal team prioritizes your best interests and diligently works to ensure that your rights to fair compensation are upheld. We understand the intricacies of equal pay disputes and are prepared to represent you with dedication both in and out of court. If you believe you’ve been unfairly compensated, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re ready to assess your case and take decisive steps towards securing the justice and equality you deserve in the workplace.
Castronovo & McKinney, LLC helps clients with their equal pay claims throughout New Jersey including Atlantic County.
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